Nicholas Brendon has checked in to a treatment facility in California “to treat his depression, alcoholism and substance abuse problems,” according to a statement on the actor’s Facebook page yesterday.
“He has been aware of his problems for some time – and with each new challenge, he gained a greater understanding of what needed to be done to overcome these obstacles and move forward with his life,” said the post.
The 44-year-old Buffy the Vampire Slayer star, who has been in rehab before, was arrested three times this year on charges including public intoxication and grand theft. After his second arrest, this past March, he said he was using substances to help him cope with depression and his history of sexual abuse as a child. “This isn’t who I am,” he said at the time.
According to yesterday’s Facebook post, he “had tried several treatment methods—from therapy, to outpatient services—only to realize recently that he needed to take an extended break and treat the underlying issues of his illnesses.”
The actor, who makes regular appearances at Buffy conventions, plans to return to the circuit after finishing treatment. “We ask that this page be filled with positive messages as we support Nicky on his road to recovery,” said the post.